Those who enjoyed the theatrical release of Emma last year (coming to home video on April 15) will likely be disappointed in this far less charming BBC/A&E co-production that premiered on the A&E cable network Feb. 16.

For that matter, those who enjoyed the BBC/A&E co-production of Pride and Prejudice will also be disappointed in this 107-minute production.

The Jane Austen stories are so utterly devoid of any real substance, essentially depicting the preoccupation with social etiquette, gossiping and meddling of 19th century English aristocrats, that their success lies solely in the appeal of the personality of their respective characters.

This is where this new version of Emma fails. Kate Beckinsale's supposedly beautiful, wealthy, young Emma is difficult to warm up to, for she spends most of her time being publicly critical of those around her. And having proclaimed that she will never marry, she delights in casting aspersions on the men her friends set their sights on and attempts to steer them in other directions.

Instead of being played for fun, this version portrays Emma's matchmaking as mean-spirited, often with hurtful results, little of which seems to have much effect on Emma. That is, until the dashing Mr. Knightley (Mark Strong) scolds her severely for the umpteenth time, and Emma finally realizes that she is in love with him. Although why he continues to be enchanted with this cold and judgmental fish is puzzling.

The costuming and sets look authentic, but the locations and photography are not nearly as sumptuous as those of Pride and Prejudice.

VID TIP: Disney will release the live action 101 Dalmatians on April 15 at the sell-through price of $26.99.(C) 1997 Scott Hettrick. Distributed by the Los Angeles Times Syndicate.